Who pays for debit or credit card fraud?

Card fraud can quickly become expensive - but who is actually liable in the event of a loss?

In principle, the following applies: Anyone who breaches their duty of care is liable for the loss or damage caused. But what does that mean in concrete terms? 

Your duties as a cardholder include:

• Keeping the card safe and not letting third parties use it  
• Never disclosing personal data such as PIN codes, SMS codes, CVC/CVV numbers or passwords to third parties 
• Checking payment requests, i.e. checking the amount and the payee before approving the payment
• Never letting other people see the PIN you enter 
• Using secure passwords. Do not use obvious number combinations for PINs, e.g. birthdays, car or telephone numbers
• Keeping the PIN and card separately
• Checking card statements promptly, i.e. generally within 30 days and reporting any discrepancies to the card issuer immediately 
• Having your card blocked immediately in the event of theft, loss or misuse

Conclusion: Care protects - also against financial consequences. The precise obligations and the question of liability are regulated by the contract with your card issuer.